Best Pennsylvania Online Sports Betting Sites 2023
If you live in the state of Pennsylvania, what options do you have when looking for the best online sports betting site? We here at Bet Station have put together a complete guide for all sportsbooks available to residents of Pennsylvania. Here you will find out everything you need to know about sports betting in PA, including which sportsbooks came first, what sports you can bet on, and the amount the state taxes you on your winnings.
If you are brand new to sports betting, our guide will bring you up to speed with all the recent changes to sports betting sites in PA. If you already have betting experience, you can use our list of the best sportsbooks in Pennsylvania to find your next online sports betting site. We have details about which sportsbooks are the most mobile-friendly, the best for casino games, and which ones are the best for poker. If you want to know everything about online gambling in Pennsylvania, this guide will make everything crystal clear.
Start With a $1,000 Risk-Free Bet
New players receive risk-free bets worth up to $1,000. If your bet loses, you will receive five equal denominations of free bets for your total wager. Unless your wager is worth less than $50, you will receive only one free bet. You must use your free bets within seven days of receipt. You must deposit at least $10 into your account to qualify. The first $1,000 of your bet is eligible for this promotion. You must be in AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MI, NY, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, or WY.
- $1,000 Risk-Free First Bet
- MLB and EPL One Game Parlay Insurance Worth $25
- Refer a Friend for a $50 Bonus
Bet $5 or More on Any Sport for $200 in Free Bets
New players only, must be located in AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, WY, or WV. Must be 21+ or 18+ in WY. Free bets are valid for seven days or 168 hours from when the free bet appears in your account. Free bet values are not included in returns or winnings from any wager. The free bets are non-transferable, non-refundable, and can not be transferred for cash. One welcome bonus per customer.
- Refer a Friend for a $100 Free Bet
- Daily Free to Play Prize Pools
- Bet $5 and get $200 Worth of Free Bets
$500 Risk-Free Bet for New Players
New members can get their first bet matched up to $500 if the wager loses. Available to any new player 21 years of age or older. Must be in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia. When making your first deposit, use code SPORTS to receive your bonus.
- Start With a $500 Risk-Free Bet
- Place Three NBA Same Game Parlays for a Free Bet
- NHL First Goal Insurance
$3,000 Risk-Free Bet
New players only. Place your first wager at the FanDuel Sportsbook for a risk-free bet worth up to $3,000. Must be over 21 years of age and physically located in AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, and WY. To qualify, you must make a deposit of at least ten dollars on any sporting event at FanDuel. If your wager loses, you can get up to $3,000 in free bets.
- Place a $20 Four+ Leg Parlay on College Football and get $10 in Free Bets
- Refer a Friend for a Bonus Worth $75
- Place an NFL 4+ Leg Same Game Parlay and Get Free Bets if your Wager Loses
$250 Risk-Free Bet
New Betway players only. You must make a deposit of at least $10 to qualify. The wager you place must have odds of at least -300. Anything lower will not count. The wager must be placed and fully settled within seven days of opening the account. You can not bet on any wagers with odds boosts. If your risk-free wager fails, Betway will credit you a free bet to the value of your wager up to $250. The promotion is eligible for new players physically in AZ, CO, IA, IN, NJ, OH, PA, or VA.
- Bet $10 to get a $5 NFL Free Bet
- 25% Parlay Boost on NFL and NCAAF Games
- Up to 40% Parlay Boost on Soccer Parlays
$100 Risk-Free Bet to any New Player
New players will receive up to $100 in cash funds if their first bet is a loss. Your first bet must be over $10 to qualify. The amount given to the player as part of this promotion is in cash funds with no restrictions or wagering requirements. You can withdraw your risk-free bet if you choose to. The promotion is valid for all players over the age of 21 in Arizona, Indiana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Virginia.
- New Player Risk-Free Bet Worth up to $100
- 25% Profit Boost for NHL and NBA Same Game Parlays
- Unlimited Parlay Boosts Worth up to 50%
New Customer Risk-Free Bet Worth $50
New players only. Opt-in and place a bet on any sport with odds of -200 or greater. If your first bet loses, FOX Bet will refund you with a free bet worth up to $50. You must place your first real money wager within seven days of signing up. The promotion is available to any new player over the age of 21 if they are in Colorado, New Jersey, Michigan, or Pennsylvania.
- First Bet Risk-Free up to $50
- Complete Weekly Challenges for Various Rewards
- $25 Daily Blackjack Insurance
Get a Risk-Free Bet Worth up to $1,250
Register a new Caesars Sportsbook account to receive a risk-free bet worth up to $1,250. New players will also receive 1,000 reward credits and 1,000 tier credits. The free bet for this promotion is only paid out if your wager loses and is worth up to $1,250. Free bets must be used within 14 days of receipt. Must be physically present in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MI, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, WV, or WY. Your first wager must be worth $10 or more to qualify. The free bet is a onetime wager that cannot be divided into multiple wagers.
- Refer a Friend for a $100 Free Bet
- 33% NFL Parlay Boost
- Ticket Giveaways for NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL Games
Get up to $500 in Free Bets
New PointsBet customers only. Place one fixed odds bet every day for five days. Each failed bet will return up to $100. Get up to $500 in free bets if all five of your wagers fail. Each free bet awarded will be the same size as the bet you placed. You can split your free bets up to four times into equal portions. New players must be in CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MI, MD, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, or WV and over the age of 21.
- Partial Cash Out on Select Wagers
- Earn PointsBet Rewards with Every Bet
- Create your own Wagers with Name A Bet
$1,000 New Player Bonus
New players get a free bet worth up to $1,000 if their first bet loses. Available to any player who has not made a deposit to the Barstool Sportsbook. Players must be over 21 and in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia. If your first bet, be a parlay or a straight bet, wins, then you do not receive any bonus cash.
- $1,000 Risk-Free Bet for New Players
- 100% Deposit Match Bonus Worth up to $500 for a Cash at Cage Deposit
- Get $30 Bonus Cash
Best Sportsbooks for Pennsylvania Players
If this is your first time signing up for a sports betting site in Pennsylvania, the next section is perfect for you. We have summarized each sportsbook, giving you an idea of what to expect before you sign up. If you wanted to join a sportsbook that offers live poker, fantasy sports, or a brilliant reward system, you can find out more below.
Rank | Sportsbooks | Legal in | Bonus | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | BetMGM | AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY | Start With a $1,000 Risk-Free Bet | |
2 | DraftKings | AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY | Bet $5 or More on Any Sport for $200 in Free Bets | |
3 | BetRivers | AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV | $500 Risk-Free Bet for New Players | |
4 | FanDuel | AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY | $3,000 Risk-Free Bet | |
5 | Betway | AZ, CO, IA, IN, NJ, OH, PA, VA | $250 Risk-Free Bet | |
6 | Unibet | AZ, IN, NJ, PA, VA | $100 Risk-Free Bet to any New Player | |
7 | FOX Bet | CO, MI, NJ, PA | New Customer Risk-Free Bet Worth $50 | |
8 | Caesars | AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MI, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY | Get a Risk-Free Bet Worth up to $1,250 | |
9 | PointsBet | CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV | Get up to $500 in Free Bets | |
10 | Barstool | AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA, WV | $1,000 New Player Bonus |
1. BetMGM
If you are a big fan of playing casino games online or on a touchscreen device, then BetMGM is the sportsbook for you. It has a humongous casino with over 1,000 games to enjoy. It has one of the biggest casino game libraries in Pennsylvania. Whether you like slots, table games, or live games, there is plenty to enjoy at this casino. Plus, they have a variety of other games to enjoy. They have multiple Slingo games, poker, and lots of slots with unique bonus features.
The sportsbook at BetMGM is also one of the best. It has consistently good odds across multiple sports when compared to Caesars and DraftKings. Plus, it is an excellent sports betting site if you enjoy promotions. Every week they introduce new promos onto the sportsbook for all players to enjoy. Add that to the outstanding loyalty program and you have a betting site that would suit most players.
- Read our full BetMGM review.
2. DraftKings
One of the most popular sportsbooks in America is DraftKings. It offers patrons a fantastic online sportsbook, exciting daily fantasy sports, and one of the best online casinos. DraftKings also operates an NFT marketplace, where you can try out cryptocurrency safely and securely. If you are yet to dabble in crypto, the DraftKings marketplace is a fantastic place to start.
DraftKings’ most successful features include an incredibly well-equipped sportsbook and an exciting fantasy sports service. The sportsbook has an excellent range of sports, with around 20 to choose from. It also has an impressive collection of leagues to bet on from around the world. The fantasy sports service has a variety of contests, each more exciting than the last. Plus, DraftKings operates some humongous competitions with prizes reaching into the millions.
- Read our full DraftKings review.
3. FanDuel
The closest rival to DraftKings is FanDuel. While DraftKings has a considerably larger casino, FanDuel is just as good at everything else. The fantasy sports at FanDuel are excellent for beginners. That is because they split up competitions based on player experience levels. If you have played under a certain number of contests, you can play other players with a similar skill level to you. This is perfect for new players as you can take your time and learn the game before going up against the fierce competition.
The sportsbook at FanDuel is another one of its strong suits. Looking at the live betting service, the options at FanDuel are way better than DraftKings. For starters, you can watch certain live streams at FanDuel whereas you can’t at DraftKings. FanDuel also has some incredible 3D graphics to represent each sport in real-time. They both have stats about the game as it takes place, but the service at FanDuel is significantly better.
- Read our full FanDuel review.
4. Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook is one of the best sports betting sites available in Pennsylvania. That is because it has a good selection of sports to bet on and leagues from around the globe. To tie the casino and sportsbook together, Caesars has a fabulous loyalty program. The reward system at Caesars is up there with the very best in Pennsylvania. You can use your reward points for free bets and promos at the sportsbook, casino, or online poker tournaments. Or you can exchange them for rewards, such as free hotel stays or trips to many Caesars resorts, such as Harrah’s Philadelphia.
If you are serious about poker, Caesars is one of the best casinos to join. Not only do they have live poker tables, but they are associates of the World Series of Poker. If you want to take on other players in online tournaments, few casinos offer a better experience than Caesars.
- Read our full Caesars review.
5. BetRivers
One of the most popular U.S. sports betting sites is BetRivers. It is owned by the same company responsible for the first casino to launch an online sportsbook in Pennsylvania, Rush Street Interactive. BetRivers is excellent for online sports betting as it has as many sports to choose from as DraftKings. The casino is a decent size, with over 400 slots to choose from and over 25 table games to enjoy.
- Read our full BetRivers review.
6. PointsBet
PointsBet has the smallest casino out of all the betting sites we have listed so far. It has fewer than 100 casino games, which is a quarter of the size of casinos like BetRivers or FanDuel. However, if you are not interested in the online casino, PointsBet operates a fantastic sportsbook. When comparing the odds to rival sports betting sites, PointsBet matched DraftKings in most areas. Plus, if you were brand new to sports betting and wanted to experience it on a touchscreen device, PointsBet is one of the best mobile apps to start with.
- Read our full PointsBet review.
7. Betway
Betway has one of the best selections of sports to bet on out of all the online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania. It is a surprising choice as it has yet to really take off in America. Betway is such a popular name in Europe, Africa, and Asia that it might be only a matter of time before it is one of the biggest names in the states. Currently, it has a well-equipped sportsbook, and a casino full of exciting games. However, it is lacking some live games, so if that’s your game of choice, look elsewhere.
- Read our full Betway review.
8. Barstool
Barstool is an up-and-coming sportsbook with a lot of potential. Currently, it only has 17 sports for you to bet on, quite below the likes of BetRivers. There are often quite a few promotions available at Barstool, but most of them are just for the online casino. Once again, the casino is small compared to the competition, with around 250 slots to choose from.
- Read our full Barstool review.
9. BetFred
BetFred teamed up with the Wind Creek Casino to bring us a new online casino and sportsbook. Both services are quite small compared to the competition, as there are only 13 different sports to bet on. This condensed selection also applies to the casino that has 180 slots. If you are looking for a small and simple sportsbook and casino, BetFred could be a good choice.
10. Unibet
Unibet is a superb sportsbook for anyone looking for a variety of events to bet on. It has 23 sports to bet on, more than the likes of FanDuel and Caesars Sportsbook. The casino does not have as good a slot selection as other popular sports betting sites, with only around 225 slots to choose from. However, it has a wonderful selection of live casino games and table games to enjoy. Plus, it is a very good casino for promotions, as you can get parlay boosts, profit boosts, and a free bet every week.
- Read our full Unibet review.
11. FOX Bet
FOX Bet is not as widely available as most sportsbooks, but it is still a great option. It has a good range of sports to bet on, an online casino, and live poker options. As far as sportsbooks go, it does not have the most promotions available. However, you will find several boosts, bonuses, and rewards when playing at FOX Bet.
- Read our full FOX Bet review.
12. betParx
betParx is a physical casino in Pennsylvania with an online sportsbook and a variety of casino games. The online casino games at betParx are quite limited, with only 140 slots and 23 table games for us to enjoy. However, the betParx Sportsbook is excellent with 24 different sports to bet on. You can bet on obscure sports like netball, futsal, and a variety of Winter Sports. As far as promotions go, betParx has a great selection but falls short of the best sportsbooks.
13. SugarHouse - Closed
Rush Street Interactive merged SugarHouse with BetRivers, giving us one consistent service to enjoy. The merge occurred around August 2022 to become more recognizable as one brand. Since then, BetRivers has aimed to compete with America's best sports betting sites.
14. TwinSpires - Closed
TwinSpires was available in ten states across America, but now the service no longer takes sports bets in Pennsylvania. Arizona remains the only state with access to TwinSpires after they announced that the service would end in PA on February 15, 2023. Players have until April 17, 2023, to withdraw their funds before it is closed for good.
The History of Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
Sports betting in America has always been a complex and often controversial subject. The recent controversies began in 1992 when George H. W. Bush signed the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) into law. The law made sports betting illegal across the nation, besides a select few states such as Nevada. Until the late 2010s, that is how it stayed across the United States. However, the PASPA is gone and there are more and more states opening their downs to online sports betting. How did the events unfold in Pennsylvania?
- February 22, 1991: Dennis DeConcini introduces the PASPA to the Senate
- June 2, 1992: The Senate passes S.474 — 102nd Congress, with 88 for and 5 against
- October 28, 1992: President George H. W. Bush signs the 1992 PASPA into law
- 2015: Several bills proposed in Pennsylvania to lift the sports betting ban
- June 29, 2016: HR 619 is adopted in Pennsylvania, effectively lifting the 1992 PASPA
- 2016: Rep. Rob Matzie leads a resolution to cancel the sports betting ban which is approved by the House Gaming Oversight Committee
- 2017: Rep. Rick Kotik proposed HR 519, a bill to speed up the development of the betting section in Pennsylvania
- June 2017: The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments against the PASPA in the court case Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association
- May 2018: The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in a decision to call the entire PASPA unconstitutional, allowing each state to legalize and regulate sports betting as they deem fit
- November 2018: Hollywood Casino becomes the first establishment to offer legal sports betting in Pennsylvania since the rule change
- May 2019: SugarHouse becomes the first online Pennsylvanian sports betting site
- June 2019: BetRivers becomes the second online sports betting site to operate in PA
- July 15, 2019: The Parx Sportsbook officially launches in Pennsylvania
- July 29, 2019: FanDuel begins online operations in PA
- Sept 2019: FOX Bet becomes the latest online sportsbook to launch in the state
- November 2019: Unibet launches in Pennsylvania
- November 2019: DraftKings opens its online sportsbook for Pennsylvania
- December 2019: BetAmerica (TwinSpires) begins operations in the state of Pennsylvania
- March 2020: Caesars Sportsbook launches in PA to take online bets
- September 2020: Barstool joins the list of sportsbooks operating in Pennsylvania
- December 2020: BetFred starts its Pennsylvania sports betting processes
- December 2020: BetMGM enters Pennsylvania
- June 2021: Betway begins taking players from Pennsylvania
- February 2022: PointsBet is the latest online sportsbook to open in Pennsylvania
- August 8, 2022: Novibet secures an online sportsbook and casino deal in Pennsylvania, launching in 2023
- February 15, 2023: TwinSpires is no longer taking sports bets in PA.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting Apps
One of the easiest ways to place a sports bet is through a mobile app. However, if you were to choose from the list of sportsbooks above, will you be able to download the app on your smartphone or tablet? Below we have a list of all the apps available on your Android device and iOS.
iOS
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- PointsBet
- Caesars Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Betway
- BetRivers
- BetParx
- FOX Bet
- Unibet
- Barstool Sportsbook
- BetFred
Android
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- PointsBet
- Caesars Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Betway
- BetRivers
- BetParx
- FOX Bet
- Unibet
- Barstool Sportsbook
- BetFred (Android APK)
Launch Dates of Pennsylvania Gambling Websites
In case you did not know, most online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania have also partnered up with retail locations. This is where you can visit a physical casino and place sports bets from a comfy lounge. Below is a list of all the casinos and, when they first opened its doors. We also have all the retail locations this sportsbook is associated with in Pennsylvania.
Sports Betting Site | Retail Location | Casino Launch Date |
---|---|---|
BetRivers | Rivers Casino Pittsburgh | August 9, 2009 |
BetRivers | Rivers Casino Philadelphia | September 23, 2010 |
FanDuel | Live! Casino Pittsburgh | November 24, 2020 |
FanDuel | Live! Casino Philadelphia | February 4, 2021 |
FanDuel | Valley Forge Casino Resort | March 31, 2012 |
TwinSpires (Closed) | Presque Isle Downs & Casino | February 28, 2007 |
Barstool Sportsbook | Hollywood Casino at the Meadows | April 15, 2009 |
Barstool Sportsbook | Hollywood Casino York | August 12, 2021 |
Barstool Sportsbook | Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course | February 12, 2008 |
Barstool Sportsbook | Hollywood Casino Morgantown | December 22, 2021 |
Caesars Sportsbook | Harrah’s Philadelphia | January 22, 2007 |
BetParx | Parx Casino | December 19, 2009 |
Betfred | Wind Creek Bethlehem | May 22, 2009 |
FOX Bet | Mount Airy Casino Resort | October 22, 2007 |
Unibet | Mohegan Sun Pocono | November 14, 2006 |
There you have it, a complete list of all the sportsbooks plus any retail locations they are associated with. This can help you choose the service right for you, as you can join a sportsbook you can play virtually and physically.
Who Can Legally Bet on Sports in Pennsylvania
Each state has different rules surrounding who can bet and how. Most states only allow players over the age of 21 to place a sports bet. Some, like Wyoming, have different rules and allow anyone over the age of 18 to enjoy an online sportsbook. Below, we outline the most important rules for players to follow in Pennsylvania.
- Legal Age: To make online sports betting in Pennsylvania, you need to be at least 21 years of age. This also applies to any retail location for the sportsbook, as well as all casino games.
- Mobile Betting: Making bets on your smartphone device is completely legal in Pennsylvania. Most sportsbooks have support for iOS and Android devices of all sizes.
- Within State Lines: Remember, to make a sports bet, you must be within state lines. Mobile apps have geolocation software built in, so they can check where you are when making a bet.
- Remote Registration: In Pennsylvania, you do not need to visit a physical sportsbook to sign up for sports betting. Simply download a mobile sportsbook, create an account, and enjoy.
- Retail Locations: There are 15 casinos with sportsbooks inside Pennsylvania. Most of these casinos are in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia, but there are other sportsbooks and betting lounges out there.
While laws surrounding sports betting change regularly, the ones we outlined above will remain the same for the foreseeable future. We will monitor the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to see if they make any changes. Otherwise, all you need to do is to be in PA, be 21 years of age or older, and you can enjoy sports betting.
Online Sports Betting Markets in PA
For those of you who don’t know, each state creates its own rules and regulations for sports betting. That means certain sports are not eligible for bets in specific states. Take eSports for example. Very few states across America allow eSports betting. The same applies to reward shows like the Oscars or Academy Awards. Certain states do not allow these types of wagers. That is why we have created a list of all the sports available for you to bet on in the state of Pennsylvania.
Markets | BetMGM | DraftKings | FanDuel | BetRivers | PointsBet | Betway | Unibet | Barstool | betParx | BetFred | Caesars | FOX Bet |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aussie Rules | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Baseball | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Basketball | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Biathlon | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
Boxing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cricket | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Curling | No | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Cycling | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Darts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Floorball | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Football | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Formula 1 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Futsal | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Golf | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Handball | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Hockey | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Indy Car | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
Jai Alai | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Lacrosse | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Each sportsbook varies with the selection of sports they have on offer. Sportsbooks like DraftKings are a popular choice as they have a wide selection of sports from all over the globe. If the sport you want to bet on is available for multiple sportsbooks, then there are other aspects to consider before signing up. For example, does the sportsbook have any promotions? Can you get free bets? Questions like these are important to consider before you sign up for a Pennsylvania sports betting site. That way, you can avoid wasting time on a badly equipped sportsbook.
What can’t you bet on in Pennsylvania?
As we have mentioned, each state has different rules regarding what an online sports betting site can offer. In Pennsylvania, they not only allow sports betting, but you can play some of the best casino games on your touchscreen device, too. There are only a handful of states across America that allow players to make sports bets and spin slots from the same app, and PA is one of the select few. However, that does not mean all sports are up for grabs. Instead, there are three types of events you can’t bet on in any Pennsylvanian sportsbook.
- Award Ceremonies
- Politics
- eSports
These are quite common across America as being the three main events you can’t bet on. Some states, like New Jersey, are more relaxed with eSports betting and betting on award ceremonies. But mostly, you will find similar restrictions across the country.
Types of Bets at Pennsylvania Online Sportsbooks
Anyone new to sports betting might not know what types of wagers you can make at online sports betting sites. There are several different bets, some depend on the final score of a game, and others rely on certain players scoring or assisting. Below is a brief list of all the wagers you can place on any online sportsbook. If you want to know more about each type of wager, check out our betting guides for more information and examples.
- Moneylines
- Point Spreads
- Totals or Over Unders
- Futures
- Parlays
- Proposition Bets
- Same Game Parlays
- Hedge Betting
- Live Bets
- Teasers
- Round Robins
If you were to join PointsBet, there is a unique type of bet on this sportsbook you won’t find anywhere else. PointsBetting is where you can win more the more right you are. If you bet on there being 45 points in an NFL game, the more points scored above 45, the more you win. However, this bet is risky as each point under 45 scores, the more you can lose. PointsBet is the only sportsbook with this wager, so any new players can easily avoid it.
Tax Rates for Online Gambling in Pennsylvania
If you are new to online gambling, there is something you need to know before you sign up. We must declare any winnings made while sports betting or playing casino games in your federal taxes. As well as paying any taxes to the IRS, the state of Pennsylvania has a 3.07% tax on gambling income. This means, the most you will spend on taxes for your sports betting or casino winnings is your tax bracket plus the 3.07% imposed by the state of PA. Remember, the highest tax bracket only applies to those earning over $539,900 a year. The tax bands range from 10% up to 37%.
Taxes are often confusing, but just remember to report your winnings or losses. Your losses can be deducted, but you can’t deduct more than you have won. This may sound intimidating, but once you fill out your tax forms, they will tell you exactly how much you owe.
Pennsylvania Online Sports Betting Revenue
Sports betting in Pennsylvania has exploded ever since the first sportsbooks opened their doors. The total sports betting handle has raised from $1.5b in 2019, to $6.75 billion in 2021. But that’s old news. We want the most relevant and up-to-date figures, which you can find at the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Below is a table with some useful figures to give you an idea of the revenue of sports betting in Pennsylvania.
Type of Sports Betting | July 2022 | August 2022 | September 2022 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|
Retail Handle | $24.9M | $29.9M | $48.5M | $103.4M |
Online Handle | $311.5M | $333M | $596.7M | $1.2B |
Total Handle | $336.5M | $363M | $645.2M | $1.3B |
As you can see from the table, it’s been a strong start to the year for sports betting in PA. In July, the total sports wagering handle was $336 million, followed by $363 million in August. September was a far busier month, with a handle of over $645.2 million from retail sportsbooks and online sports betting sites. That means, in three months, sports betting in Pennsylvania has seen over $1.34 billion handled. For those of you wondering, the handle means how much players have staked or wagered.
Payment Methods at PA Sportsbooks
Sportsbooks offer a variety of different payment methods. Some are quick and can be done from anywhere within state lines. Others allow you to visit a fine establishment and deposit cash into your online account. Each sports betting site will have a different range of payment methods when compared to another. This can include credit cards, debit cards, online banking, PayPal, eChecks, and many more.
Below we outline all the payment methods you can find in Pennsylvania and which sportsbooks support what. In case you did not know, just because you can make a deposit with your credit card, does not mean you can also make a withdrawal. It is quite common for sports betting sites to offer more deposit methods than ways to get a hold of your cash, so make sure you check both sections before you decide.
Deposits
Most sportsbooks offer at least five different ways for you to deposit funds into your account. This can include a variety of credit or debit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Or, it can include methods like Trustly and Skrill to make digital payments. Most sports betting sites will have multiple methods to suit all players.
Payment Method | BetMGM | DraftKings | FanDuel | BetRivers | PointsBet | Betway | Unibet | Barstool | betParx | Betfred | Caesars | FOX Bet |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mastercard | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Visa | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Discover | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
American Express | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
PayPal | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
PayNearMe | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Online Banking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Apple Pay | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
eCheck | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Wire Transfer | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Skrill | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
GiftCards | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Prepaid Play+ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Cash | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Venmo | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
VanillaDirect | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
Neteller | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Remember, making deposits is one of the most important factors to consider when signing up. You don’t want to join somewhere and find it inconvenient to deposit your funds. That’s because there are currently 14 different online sportsbooks available in Pennsylvania. You do not have to make do with one service, as there are plenty of other options to consider.
Withdrawals
The same applies to withdrawals as deposits. You want a service with a variety of options that are convenient for you. If you live near a casino with a sportsbook, wouldn’t it be nice to swing by and withdraw your digital funds for cash at the cashier? Or would you prefer to withdraw to your PayPal account on the same day? Below is a list of the various withdrawal methods available in Pennsylvania and all the casinos that support them.
Payment Method | BetMGM | DraftKings | FanDuel | BetRivers | PointsBet | Betway | Unibet | Barstool | betParx | Betfred | Caesars | FOX Bet |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Visa | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Mastercard | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No |
PayPal | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Online Banking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No |
Play+ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Cash | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
eCheck | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Wire | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Venmo | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Skrill | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Neteller | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No |
One last aspect to consider before you sign up is security. Some sports betting sites have various measures in place to help protect your funds. Take PointsBet for example. You can only withdraw to PayPal if that is a method you have made a deposit from previously. This helps protect you from losing all your funds should someone gain access to your account.
Promotions and Bonuses at Pennsylvanian Betting Websites
If you are still undecided about which sportsbook to sign up for, then you should look at the promotions. Most sportsbooks have promos and bonuses for all players to enjoy. This can include free bets, parlays boosts, and even parlay insurance if your bet was to fail. Some sportsbooks give out promotions like this weekly. Others are far more stringent with the freebies. Below we have a table with all the different promotions to be on the lookout for, plus we have details about the best sites for each promo.
Promo Type | Explanation | Example |
---|---|---|
Free Bet | A chance to place a wager without staking any of your own cash | If you place a $5 free bet on a single with +200 odds, you get $10 profit if the bet wins. The free bet value is not included in your winnings |
Risk-Free Bet | Risk-free means the sportsbook will give you a free bet equal to the amount you wagered if your bet fails | Sign up to BetMGM and your first wager is covered up to $1,000 risk-free. If it loses, you get up to $1,000 back. If it wins, then you get nothing extra |
Odds Boost | The chance to boost your own wager and increase its returns. Or, you can view the odds already boosted by the sportsbook | At PointsBet, the sportsbook will boost random wagers throughout the week, increasing the winning margin if you were to make the bet. For example, USA to qualify from Group B, was -105, now +110 |
Parlay Insurance | Insurance at a sportsbook means they cover a certain amount of your bet should it fail. Usually, the parlay will need to fail by one leg to trigger the free bet reward | If you place a four-leg parlay on the NFL and only one game lets you down, parlay insurance will allow you to get a certain amount of your stake back as a free bet. |
Deposit Match | Certain sportsbooks and casinos will match the amount you deposit. They can match 100% of your deposit, or as little as 20% | A casino has a welcome offer with a 100% deposit match up to $1,000. If you deposit $1,000, the sportsbook will give you an extra thousand bucks to play with |
Bonus Cash | Slightly different to regular cash funds. Bonus funds are an exclusive currency given out for free. The only way to withdraw these funds is to win and convert them into cash | If you claim a deposit match at an online casino, usually the amount they give you is in bonus funds. So, you will need to wager this money a certain number of times to convert it. For sportsbooks, you often only need to win one wager for the funds to be eligible for withdrawal |
Free Bets
Nothing is better than a free bet. It is your chance to place a wager on a sporting event with none of your cash on the line. You can place a bet on almost anything hoping to win actual cash. In case you did not know, you do not win the value of a free bet back. You can only win the profit from the wager itself.
While we enjoy getting free bets, they are not common for every sports betting site. Some sportsbooks hand free bets to players every week, while others rely on a reward system. This is where you need to spend a certain amount to get reward points. You can then use these points for bonuses, such as free bets. If free bets are a big part of your game, where should you go for the best free bets?
Best Free Bets Sites
If you are looking for the best sites for free bets, any of the sportsbooks listed below are fantastic options. Remember, promotions change at sports betting sites all the time. Make sure you check ahead before you sign up. Here are just a few examples of free bets on offer at the best sportsbooks.
- FanDuel: Bet $20 on a same game four-leg parlay on college football and get $10 in free bets. Free bet if your straight wager for the USA to beat Wales in the World Cup loses. Place a three-leg parlay on the World Cup and get a free bet worth up to $25 if you lose by one leg.
- BetMGM: Bet $100 on the NHL in a week for $10 free to use on NHL Blackjack or NHL Dream Catcher. Bet $20 on any NFL game for $10 free Pittsburgh Steelers Blackjack or Pittsburgh Steelers Roulette Live. Get up to $25 in free bets if your football same game parlay of four legs fails by one. NBA $25 free bet if your same game parlay fails by one.
- Unibet: Get a $10 free live bet when you make a $20 same game parlay on Thursday night football. $10 free live bet when you bet $20 on a Monday night football same game parlay. Get a $10 free bet when you place five or more live bets every week.
Risk-Free Bets
If you are new to sports betting, you might not know about risk-free bets. This is a unique type of wager, where if your bet loses, you get the amount equal to your wager as a free bet. Risk-free bets are very common as a welcome bonus at a sports betting site. Here are the best sports betting sites with risk-free welcome offers.
Best Risk-Free Bets Sites
- Caesars Sportsbook: Get a risk-free bet worth up to $1,250 and receive 1,000 reward credits and 1,000 tier credits to use on the exclusive Caesars Rewards loyalty program.
- FanDuel: Start off with a risk-free bet worth up to $1,000 if your first bet loses.
- BetMGM: The first bet is risk-free up to $1,000 at the BetMGM Sportsbook.
- Barstool: New player's first bet is risk-free up to $1,000
Odds Boosts
Another type of promotion that can help your weekly betting activity is an odds boost. Some sportsbooks, like Caesars and Betway, boost random odds throughout the week. This is where they increase the odds of a specific wager in the run-up to a sporting event. Plus, they can also boost live bets while a game is taking place. That is not the only type of boost. Other sportsbooks offer profit boosts, so your bets return even more money if they are right.
Best Odds Boosts Sites
- BetRivers: Bet up to $10 on Jai Alai for a 50% profit boost to use on your next Jai Alai bet. Get a 20% profit boost for any three-leg NCAAF parlay when you bet up to $25. Place a bet of at least $25 on a Friday night NCAAF pre-game wager for a 20% live profit boost. Bet $10 or more on an NHL three-leg same game parlay for a 20% profit boost to use on any NHL bet. Wager on a four-leg NCAAB parlay and get a 20% profit boost when you spend $25 or more.
- SugarHouse: 20% profit boost for four-leg NCAAB parlays when you bet $25 or more. Place a $25 pre-game wager on the NCAAF for a 20% live profit boost. Get a 20% profit boost when you spend $25 or less on a three-leg NCAAF parlay. Bet $10 or more on a three-leg same game parlay for a 20% profit boost on the NHL.
- Unibet: Place a three-leg same game parlay on the NBA for a 25% profit boost. Bet on the NBA on Tuesday or Thursday for a live 25% profit boost. Get a 25% profit boost on NHL same game parlays with three legs or more. Get an unlimited amount of parlay boosts worth up to 50% when you make a pre-match parlay with between three and 12-legs. Enjoy happy hour price boosts from Wednesday to Friday and daily profit boosts all week.
Comparison of Pennsylvania Online Sportsbooks
If you are not sure which sports betting site to choose, maybe this section will help you the most. Besides the different payment methods, locations, and promotions, there are a lot of factors to consider when signing up for a sportsbook. That is why we have broken up a sports betting site into various categories. Here you will find the best sportsbooks for fantasy sports, mobile betting, and which sites have the best range of sports. Plus, we have a breakdown for the online casino, so you can join the best site for slots or poker.
Sportsbook | Number of Sports | Casino Games | Poker | Fantasy Sports |
---|---|---|---|---|
DraftKings | 20 | 949 | No | Yes |
Parx | 24 | 163 | No | No |
FanDuel | 19 | 394 | No | Yes |
BetRivers | 24 | 452 | No | No |
Unibet | 23 | 258 | No | No |
BetMGM | 18 | 1007 | Yes | No |
Betway | 21 | 204 | No | No |
PointsBet | 18 | 60 | No | No |
FOX Bet | 19 | 400 | Yes | No |
Barstool | 17 | 320 | No | No |
Caesars | 12 | 122 | Yes | No |
BetFred | 13 | 210 | No | No |
Best for Sport
If you are looking for the widest range of sports to bet on, there are several excellent online sportsbooks to consider. DraftKings and FanDuel are better equipped than casinos like BetMGM, Caesars, and PointsBet, but in Pennsylvania, they do not have the most sports to bet on. If you are looking for obscure sports like table tennis, water polo, and many more, then check out any of the following.
- betParx
- Unibet
- BetRivers
Any of the sports betting sites listed above will have all the major sports, plus some less conventional ones. If you wanted to just stick with football, baseball, or basketball, every sportsbook available in Pennsylvania has you covered. If you are looking for something more specific, then any of the sports betting sites above are here for you.
Best for Fantasy Sports
If you are interested in fantasy sports, there are two services that are excellent. DraftKings and FanDuel are two of the most popular fantasy sports services in the United States. No matter what state you are playing from, these two are at the top.
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
If you are brand new to daily fantasy sports, FanDuel could be the better option. That is because FanDuel is more beginner-friendly, with more contests reserved for newbies. This allows you to practice with low stakes against players near your skill level. If you have experience or a lot of confidence, then DraftKings is the way to go. It has the opportunity for much larger prizes.
Best Mobile App
Most of us will make sports bets on our mobile devices or tablets. Therefore, you want a service that is easy to use on a touchscreen device. There are many to choose from in this section, each having subtle differences separating the good from the great. Say you are a fan of live betting, sportsbooks like PointsBet, BetMGM, and Caesars are excellent at providing you with not just live views of the game, but a heap of stats too. Any of the sports betting sites listed below are perfect for new players trying out gambling for the very first time.
- FanDuel
- Caesars
- PointsBet
- BetMGM
If you are confident in your ability to use a sportsbook, DraftKings is another option to consider. It is not as beginner friendly as the ones above, but it often has the best odds. To find out more about DraftKings, check out our DraftKings review.
Best for Casino
For this category, we are looking at the best all-around casino. That means we want a lot of slots, table games, live games, and anything extra is just a bonus. In Pennsylvania, all sports betting sites offer an online casino to their players. So, you want to join the site that offers the sports you want and has a good range of casino games to enjoy as well.
- BetMGM
- DraftKings
- BetRivers
Any of these online casinos have hundreds of slots and a wide range of table games to choose from. They also offer live games, where you can enjoy the company of a live croupier and join other players trying to take cash from the house.
Best for Slots
If we are talking about just slots, then there are a couple of online casinos that shine brighter than others. Both BetMGM and DraftKings offer over 800 slots for you to choose from. That is nearly double that of BetRivers, which offers around 420. Certain online casinos like BetFred, PointsBet, and Parx all have underwhelming slot libraries compared to the competition.
- BetMGM
- DraftKings
If slots are important to you, then no casino really comes close to DraftKings or BetMGM. They both have enormous libraries full of slot variations. They have different versions of the same game, lots of Slingo games, plus slots with giant jackpots.
Best for Poker
If you are serious about your poker, then you want the chance to take on other players for real money. All the casinos we have listed above allow you to take on a live croupier, but where can you go up against live players?
- BetMGM
- Caesars
- FOX Bet
Any of these casinos allow you to take on other players in quick poker games or high-stakes tournaments. If you are serious about your poker, you won’t find better than Caesars, BetMGM, or Fox Bet.
How to Get Started on Pennsylvania Sportsbooks
Joining a sportsbook in Pennsylvania is easy and a lot of fun. No matter which sportsbook you join, there is a welcome bonus to help you get started. This bonus can include a free bet, a risk-free bet, or a variety of other goodies to aid you in your first bet. We have put a nice step-by-step guide to give you an idea of what you need to do before you can try your luck.
Step 1
To get started, you need to choose a sportsbook from our list. There are 14 options to consider, each service differs a lot from the last. You should consider each site’s welcome bonus, promotions, and even the reward system to see if it is the right sports betting site for you. Whichever one you choose, you can always move at a later date; there is no need to be loyal.
Step 2
Once you have chosen your preferred sportsbook, you will need to register. This is where you put in personal information, create an account, and supply your social security number. They use your SSN to verify your age, identity, and residence, as you are only allowed to bet in Pennsylvania when you sign up for a Pennsylvania sportsbook. Even if you move state, you must create a new account.
Often, in this step, you will need to claim a bonus. Sportsbooks like Caesars, FanDuel, and various others require you to enter a promo code as you sign up to get a bonus. If you cannot do so, then there is no welcome bonus for you.
Step 3
Make your deposit. To make use of your welcome bonus, you will need to make a deposit. Sometimes the amount you deposit affects how much your welcome bonus is worth. Make sure you read the terms and conditions before you make that first deposit or wager.
Step 4
Choose a bet. Once you have money in your account, the fun can begin. You can browse the various sports and bets offered at the sportsbook and add them to your bet slip. Plus, you don’t need to be strict in this step. You can add as many bets as you want, with no obligation to place them. Simply add the bets that interest you and tinker with how much you will stake. You can also experiment with interesting wagers like parlays or a round robin.
Step 5
This is possibly the hardest part of sports betting, fantasy sports, or playing any casino games; having funds to withdraw. If you are successful with your betting activity, then remember to withdraw your funds. You can always deposit more at a later date. Just take some out and enjoy it. After all, that is the entire point!
Responsible Gambling in Pennsylvania
We have spoken a lot about which sportsbooks have great bonuses and what sports to bet on, but not everything can go right when sports betting. Thankfully, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board takes responsible gambling seriously, which means the sports betting sites do too. Each sports betting site we have mentioned has a variety of tools to help you control and reduce your spending. There are deposit limits, screen time reminders, and many other features to help you stay on top of your betting.
If you feel like sports betting is not for you, and you want to stop, can call the 24-hour hotline 1-800-GAMBLER. There are many services in Pennsylvania to help you stop sports betting and we recommend you take advantage of them. Remember to only wager what you can afford to lose and when the fun stops, stop.
Pennsylvania Frequently Asked Questions
What betting apps work in Pennsylvania?
There are 14 different sports betting apps in Pennsylvania. They include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, PointsBet, Caesars, Parx, SugarHouse, BetRivers, Unibet, Betway, TwinSpires, FOX Bet, Barstool, and BetFred. These sportsbooks have mobile apps for Android and iOS devices.
Does DraftKings work in Pennsylvania?
Yes, DraftKings is one of the most popular online sports betting services in Pennsylvania thanks to its wide range of services. You can make sports bets, enjoy fantasy sports, casino games, and collect sports-related NFTs. If you are looking for a complete betting service, you will struggle to find better than DraftKings.
Does FanDuel work in Pennsylvania?
FanDuel began operations in Pennsylvania on July 29, 2019. That means players can now enjoy sports betting, fantasy sports, and online casino games from FanDuel. If you intend to use a mobile device or tablet, FanDuel is one of the best for touchscreen devices in Pennsylvania.
Can you use barstool sportsbook in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Barstool began taking bets in Pennsylvania, way back in September 2020. That means residents in Pennsylvania have access to a wide range of casino games and an excellent sportsbook. Barstool was the tenth sports betting site to launch in the state of Pennsylvania, a few months before BetMGM.
Can you bet on PointsBet in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can. PointsBet was the most recent sports betting site to launch in Pennsylvania. It launched in February 2022, making it the 14th sportsbook to operate within state lines. Residents of Pennsylvania can now enjoy the PointsBet Sportsbook and online casino.
Can I bet online on different state if I don't live there?
No, you can’t. Sports betting sites are very strict about who can bet and from where. Sports betting apps have geolocation software to ensure you are betting from the correct territory. You must be physically within state lines to place a valid sports bet. If you move states, you will need to create a new account.
Can you bet online in Pennsylvania?
Online betting has been legal in Pennsylvania since 2019. SugarHouse was the first online sportsbook to take sports bets in Pennsylvania. Since then, 13 other sports betting sites have entered the fray, providing us with multiple options when joining an online sportsbook.
Is Borgata Sportsbook legal in PA?
No, the Borgata Sportsbook is not legal in the state of Pennsylvania. The Borgata online casino is legal in PA, as the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board regulates it. Borgata is owned by BetMGM, meaning you can earn MGM Reward Points while playing any of the games at the Borgata Casino. However, you cannot currently make sports bets from the Borgata Sportsbook in Pennsylvania.